Q There is a lot of debate about whether cycle helmets even work. Would you recommend wearing one?

A It is not law in this country to wear a helmet and as such I expect the opportunity to 'rebel' and exercise 'choice' still appeals to the anti-establishment side in some of us. Perhaps that is why I do not like wearing a helmet, although I have always struggled to be convinced that a piece of foam perched on my head and held in place by a small strap will have any protective effect.

Testing has shown that traditional helmets reduce the severity of the impact, and therefore head injury, from a fall. Compulsory headgear in Australia and Canada has probably reduced mortality rates in children. However, these benefits have not been demonstrated in adults and may be less effective in accidents involving cars, the most common cause of deaths in adult cyclists.

Some studies have suggested that mandatory wearing of helmets induces more reckless behaviour. In Holland and Denmark, where cycling is popular, helmets are not compulsory, and mortality rates have been lowered through speed limits, cycle lanes and public safety campaigns.

I ensure my children wear helmets and, as materials and technology improve, we will achieve greater protection. But I would object to a legal requirement to wear inadequate protection, when investment in proper cycle paths would both preserve life and encourage cycling.

Dr Nicholas Peirce is the ECB's chief medical officer and a lead physician for the English Institute of Sport. To ask a question, email osm@observer.co.uk